December 29, 2017 - Stamford American

FRIDAY DECEMBER 29, 2017 THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN VOL. 10, ISSUE 32 STAMFORD AMERICAN VOLUME 97, ISSUE 37 STAMFORD LEADER VOLUME 115, ISSUE 38

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STAMFORD

2017: A Year of Memories

BY WILL MCCLURE Another year has gone by for the citizens of Stamford and the year was once again filled with many wonderful moments and memories from saying goodbye to old friends to welcoming new members to the community to honoring those that are no longer with us. Whether it was seeing the opening of a new business in town, sharing the recognitions of current and former citizens, or simply being on the sidelines for our Bulldogs and Lady Bulldogs, we at the Stamford American have been proud to bring you these moments and memories for yet another year. So, as we prepare to see what 2018 will bring, we invite you to take a look back at what 2017 meant for the people of Stamford.

January Oklahoma State University wide receiver James Washington was named Offensive MVP of the Alamo Bowl, amassing over 171 yards on nine catches and one touchdown before leaving the game early with a finger injury. He finished his junior season with 71 receptions, 1,380 yards

and 10 touchdowns and announced that he would return to OSU to for his senior season.

The family of Weldon Holbrooks was presented with a plaque during the 61st Tri-Area Stock Show on Saturday, January 7th in honor of Mr. Holbrooks who had passed away the previous year. Holbrooks was one of the teachers that created the stock show 61 years ago, overseeing its growth from an event on the square to the annual tradition that it is today in the arena named in his honor.

Stamford suffered a great loss to the community on Monday, January 16th, when Dr. Tony Selmon passed away at the local hospital where he worked for so long. Selmon was born to John and Emma Selmon on February 1, 1917 in Spur, Texas before the family moved to the Flat Top Ranch 12 miles outside of Stamford in 1919. He graduated from Stamford High School in 1935 and, after doing a “little of everything,” practiced medicine in Stamford for 38 years before retiring at the age of 66.

Anson City Manager Son-

ny Campbell announced that the city of Anson had decided to outsource their EMS to Stamford EMS. Stamford EMS would use the facility and ambulances belonging to Anson to provide service for Anson.

The deal would see Anson pay Stamford EMS $3000 per month to provide EMS services for the city.

February The Big Country Athletic Hall of Fame announced its inductees for the 2017 Hall of Fame class where, among the seven individuals announced, former Stamford High School head coach Larry Wartes was in line for this prestigious honor. Inducted posthumously, Wartes would be the third Stamford head coach inducted into the Hall of Fame after Gordon Wood and Bill Anderson.

Wartes came to Stamford in 1955 as head basketball coach and assistant football coach under Coach Wood before taking over as head coach in 1958 and then leaving in 1966 after leading the Bulldogs to two state championships.

Boards from Stamford Hospital District, Haskell Hospital District and Stonewall Hospital District

gathered at the Haskell Memorial Hospital Educational Building to discuss future collaboration between the districts. The meeting was a result of two years of planning and input and advice from almost three dozen healthcare leaders.

Stamford CEO Rick DeFoore outlined that 80 U.S. rural hospitals have closed since 2010, 13 of which were in Texas, and stated that discussions between the three hospitals started in early 2015 with talks of a possibility to move towards a collaborative solution to prevent a closure among the three.

Caitlin Richards settled into her new role as Chamber of Commerce Director, taking over for former Director Carolyn Smith. Richards had previously served on the Board of Directors since August 2016 and stated that she looked forward to building the relationship with the businesses of Stamford and establishing the connection between them and the Chamber, hoping that she could do her part in helping local businesses grow.

SEE 2017, PG 4

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In January, Stamford suffered a great loss to the community as Dr. Tony Selmon passed away at the local hospital where he had worked for so long. Dr. Selmon practiced medicine in Stamford for 38 years before retiring at the age of 66 and passed away one week before his 100th birthday.

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In February, it was reported that the late Larry Wartes would be posthumously inducted into the Big Country Athletic Hall of Fame later in the year. Wartes is only the third former Stamford head coach to be inducted after Coaches Gordon Wood and Bill Anderson, and he helped lead the Bulldogs to two State Championships in the 1950s.

In March, Stamford held its first predator hunt hosted by Paint Creek Taxidermy and Stamford Mercantile & Brazos Firearms.

The 24 hour hunt featured individuals and teams of up to four members hunting coyotes, bobcats and mountain lions.

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THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

THIS WEEK’S WEATHER FORECAST Callie Metler-Smith | Publisher callie@americannewspapers.net Will McClure | Editor editor@americannewspapers.net Ben Gonzalez | Ad Manager ben@americannewspapers.net Gayle Lovvorn | Office Manager office@americannewspapers.net P.O. Box 870 102 S. Swenson Stamford TX 79553 325-773-5550 FAX: 325-773-5551 office@americannewspapers.net SUBSCRIPTION RATES Within Haskell, Jones, and Stonewall Counties: $30 Within Texas: $32 Within the United States: $35 DEADLINE The deadline to submit news and advertising is 5 p.m. on Fridays.

Exceptions may be granted only by permission from the publisher.

SUBMISSIONS POLICY The New Stamford American reserves the right to reject unsolicited submissions for any reason. Articles and news items submitted are subject to editing by staff.

NOTICE Any erroneous reflection upon the character, reputation or standing of any individual, firm or corporation will be gladly corrected upon being brought to the attention of the publisher.

The New Stamford American (USPS 025-332) is published weekly at 102 South Swenson, Stamford, Jones County, Texas by Clear Fork Media Group LLC. Periodicals Postage Paid at Stamford, Texas 79553. POSTMASTER: Send address changes to The New Stamford American, P O BOX 870, Stamford, Texas 79553

MEMBER 2017 TEXAS PRESS ASSOCIATION

Friday 53 | 33

Saturday 51 | 31

Sunday 44 | 21

Monday 33 | 19

Tuesday 44 | 29

Temple Baptist Hosts Special Presentations Temple Baptist Church at 309 E Campbell, Stamford is hosting two unique presentations of “Dinosaurs: Taking Back God’s Wonderful Creatures” by Paul Cornelius on Sunday, January 7 at 10:00am & 11:00am. FMI please call 325-773-2550 or 325-773-2139.

BALES GINNED AT AREA GINS as of 12/27/17 Ericksdahl Coop Gin - 10,831 Farmer’s Coop Gin-Stamford - 25,199 Farmer’s Coop Gin-Anson - 6,386 Farmer’s Coop Gin-Radium - 9,228

Wednesday 47 | 30

Thursday 48 | 31

The weather is provided for you by Country Drug Store. We’re here for you Rain or Shine.

MARK THE DATE...

DEADLINES: The Stamford American and Noteworthy will be closed January 1st for New Year’s Day. The deadline for the paper will be Friday, December 29th.

VOLUNTEER: The Stamford VIP Center is in need of volunteer route drivers to deliver Meals on Wheels to our homebound people. It takes about 30 minutes or less to do, but you will bring joy to those you deliver to. Please contact Rita at 325-773-2337 Stamford VIP Center.

DEC 30TH

DANCE: Gary Wimberly Scholarship Dance at the Round Up Hall in Stamford, 8:00 pm. Come enjoy headliner Matt Wayne and Company and also Holt Henrich and the Steel Reserve. $10 a person, $15 a couple, 12 and under free.

Proceeds benefit the Gary Wimberly Scholarship Fund.

JAN 7TH

PRESENTATIONS: Temple Baptist Church at 309 E Campbell, Stamford, is hosting two unique presentations of “Dinosaurs: Taking Back God’s Wonderful Creatures” by Paul Cornelius on Sunday, January 7 at 10:00am & 11:00am. FMI please call 325-773-2550 or 325-773-2139.

FEB 10

SMORGASBORD: The Swedish Smorgasbord at Bethel Lutheran Church in Ericksdahl will be held February 10, 2018. We will be serving 450 people at the event with seating times at 5:00 p.m., 6:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. The tickets are $25.00 each and only sold in advance. For tickets contact Connie Shurley 325-7733757 or Tena Tankersley 325-668-2796.

Community

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DECEMBER 29, 2017 3

Congratulations to the 2017 Blue Christmas Raffle Drawing Winners!! $300 Cash Prize - Darla Titus $150 Cash Prize Donated by Atmos Energy - Breane Exiga $100 Cash Prize Donated by WashPot - Barry Shan Noteworthy Gift Certificate - Lynda Taylor Little House of Treasures Gift Certificate - Phyllis Letz Buffalo Gals Gift Certificate - Jennifer Caddell Blue Jeans Cafe Gift Certificate - Kim Dorthy Blue Jeans Cafe Gift Certificate - Susie McLellan Blue Jeans Cafe Gift Certificate - Jeryl Anne Cooper Blue Jeans Cafe Gift Certificate - Sharon Pierce Mi Familia Gift Certificate - Teresa Vaughn Mi Familia Gift Certificate - Michelle Liccion Makaio’s & Meme’s Gift Certificate - Brandy Leek Makaio’s & Meme’s Gift Certificate - Sasha Raines Makaio’s & Meme’s Gift Certificate - Margaret Bennett Makaio’s & Meme’s Gift Certificate - Sherry Weeks Stamford Health Club 1-Month Membership - Cody McClintock Stamford Health Club 1-Month Membership - Crystal Kelmer Gift Certificate to Dixie Dog - Renea Jones Gift Certificate to Dixie Dog - Joe Isbell Gift Certificate to Unperfect Fried Pies - Tish Horner A big thank you to all of the businesses who donated for the prizes!! Be sure to keep supporting your local businesses this holiday season and throughout 2018!!

A Retirement Party honoring Mary Ann Lovelady, Jones County Tax Assessor Collector, was held Wednesday, December 20.

Lovelady has worked for the County for 25 years, 18 of them as the Tax Assessor Collector. Pictured with Lovelady (center) are employees Whitney Ortega (l) and Sarah Shaw (r).

Rep. Lambert Appointed To Sunset Advisory Commission Representative Stan Lambert was appointed a member of the Sunset Advisory Commission.

Created in 1977, this 12 member board consists of legislators and members of the public appointed by both the Speaker and the Lieutenant Governor. The goal of the agency is to identify and eliminate waste, duplication and inefficiency in government

agencies. More than 30 agencies will be under review in the coming cycle, including the Texas Alcoholic Beverage Commission, Department of Banking, Texas Military Department, Department of Motor Vehicles, Department of Public Safety, and the Texas Veterans Commission.

“I am humbled and honored to be asked to serve as a member of the

Sunset Advisory Commission,” said Representative Lambert. “I look forward to working with my colleagues to recommend ways to make these agencies more effective and efficient while being good stewards to the taxpayers of Texas.”

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In April, the family of the late Eric Alvarez gathered at Wendeborn Field before the Bulldogs' final home baseball game of the season to witness the official retirement of Alvarez's #15 and the presentation of a sign that will permanently hang on the outfield wall.

In May, Clear Fork Publishing was proud to announce the publication of Carlos Cantu's book of poetry, Mesquites. The collection, written in both English and Spanish, features poems about the many different experiences in Cantu's life.

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2017: Continued From Page 1 The Stamford Bulldog basketball team pulled off the win in a back-andforth Bi-District contest against Irion County in Coleman to become BiDistrict champions in the last seconds of the game with a final score of 6158. They would then go on to defeat Sundown to become Area Champions in a 51-49 nailbiter before falling to Anthony in the Regional Quarterfinals, finishing their season with an overall record of 22-12.

March Stamford held its first annual Predator Hunt hosted by Paint Creek Taxidermy and Stamford Mercantile and Brazos Firearms. The 24 hour competition featured individuals and teams of up to four members hunting coyotes, bobcats and mountain lions.

Teams were allowed to hunt anywhere they wished, provided they had permission from property owners, and had to follow all Texas Parks and Wildlife rules and regulations.

Stamford ISD announced that they would become a “District of Innovation” through a Texas Legislature House Bill which allowed them to access flexibilities previously reserved for open enrollment charter schools.

A committee consisting of 28 members that included all three campus principals, teachers, members of the community and Superintendent Dr. Shaun Barnett met to discuss what flexibilities to discuss such as changing the school start date as well as adopting local certifications.

Stamford High School’s production of “Those Shining Lives” advanced to the Bi-District One Act Play competition in Irion County. At the District competition, Bry Birdsong received the honor of Best Actress while Tim Chambers was named to the All-Star Cast. Cassie King received Honorable Mention All-Star Cast and Sadie Cole was named to the All-Star Tech Crew. The team would advance to the Regional competition.

The Stamford City Council adopted a new resolution which served as a

recommendation to the Texas State Legislature to allow the City of Stamford to be recognized as the Western Art Show Capital of Texas. Introduced

by House Representative Stan Lambert, the designation recognized the Western Art Show and Sale, part of Texas Cowboy Reunion weekend, as the oldest continuously held art show in the state of Texas as well as the third-oldest event of its kind in the entire United States.

The Stamford Chamber of Commerce held its annual banquet with the theme “Bloom Where You are Planted.” The keynote speaker, sponsored by Stamford Healthcare Systems, Michael Draggs, shared an inspirational message packed with enthusiasm about how everyone in the community can create positive change for Stamford. The 2017 Outstanding Senior Boy and Girl were named as Eurtis Downs and Taylor Beeson, respectively, while Glenda Standifer was named 2017 Citizen of the Year, and the Stamford Healthcare System was 2017 Business of the Year.

April The Chamber of Commerce hosted an Easter egg hunt in Harmon Park to kick off spring in Stamford and celebrate the Easter holiday. Families with children 11 years old and younger were invited to join the Chamber for the hunt which featured an appearance by the Easter Bunny as well as special eggs that awarded special prizes for those that found them and brought them back to redeem.

Stamford Bulldogs and Lady Bulldogs received top awards on the Abilene Reporter News 2A All Big Country Basketball Teams. Noah Horn and Brooklyn Woodard were each named Class 2A Big Country Player of the Year while Trace Edwards was named Newcomer of the Year and Taylor Beeson was named to the First Team.

The family of the late Eric Alvarez gathered at Wenderborn field before the start of the Bulldogs’ final home

baseball game of the season to witness the official retirement of Alvarez’s #15 and a presentation of a sign that will permanently hang on the outfield wall. Alvarez played all four years of his high school career for the Stamford Bulldogs from 1995 to 1998 and went on to become Rotan’s head baseball coach after college before tragically passing away in November 2005.

Co-owners Lynndy Moeller and Molly Spraberry were proud to announce the grand opening of their new beauty salon in Stamford, named Holy Hair Salon. The salon offers services from manicures and pedicures to hair coloring. Moeller previously spent the last seven-and-a-half years in Brit’s Salon in Haskell while Spraberry has been a hair stylist since August 2014 and has worked and managed Beverly’s in Anson.

May Clear Fork Publishing published a collection of poems written by Carlos “Charlie” Cantu entitled Mesquites.

The collection, written in both English and Spanish, is made up of different poems covering the many different experiences in Cantu’s life from his early 20s while working in restaurants to his most recent poem from 1987 before he began collecting the poems together for a future book.

Stamford student athletes were honored at the annual Sports Banquet where students were recognized for their efforts in Stamford athletics throughout the year. Along with the individual sport MVP awards, other awards given during the evening were Matt Medford and Taylor Beeson (Gene Stuckey), Guy London (Bill Anderson) and Quinton Adkins and Bree Ratheal (Fighting Heart).

Stamford saw the opening of the Jones-Haskell Farmer’s Market, which was born out of a passion for gardening by market manager Tommy Bearden.

SEE 2017, PG 7

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DECEMBER 29, 2017 5

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HELLO FROM COWBOY COUNTRY By Jewellee Kuenstler There are many jobs in a museum. Usually I flit from one project to the next, but this week, due to a particular project, I have been focusing on photographs. I knew our museum was blessed with a large collection, but the numbers I finally tallied shocked me. Our museum currently houses over 15,000 photographs!

These photographs range from very small prints, less than one inch square. Others are great big panoramic views. Some of the earliest are tin types (actual photographs on a piece of tin) as well as some from the 1880s.

These are “snapshots” of history. You can learn so much from a photo, clothing, hairstyles, gender roles, class rankings, etc.

A quick history of photography is essential to further understand just how important photographs are to preserving our history. Inventors began experimenting with capturing an image through light exposure in the early 1700s, but it was not until the 1820s that cameras were actually able to capture images, then only a hazy outline.

From there, it progressed quickly to portraits in the 1830s.

The American Civil War was the first time that war scenes were photographed and shared with the public. Side note: Because exposure times were minutes long, the photographers would follow armies and photograph the carnage after a battle. At Gettysburg, one poor Confederate casualty was moved to multiple locations, posed various ways, and photographed. Sad, really. But I digress.

Most of the early photos were of significant events or portraits of people or families. But probably some of the most important photographs, are those showing the life of the common man. We have photos that show people working in the fields, working in shops, repairing shoes, etc. These are invaluable because they give us a glimpse of “real” life, not just a posed setting.

And of course, we are so proud to house some of Ray Rector’s photographs. Ray Rector was a working cowboy, that showed an interest in this new pastime, photography.

Ray was famous for his photographs of working cowboys, mainly from the Swenson Ranch. Today, we tend to view the “cowboy life” with a romantic lens. But during the time that Ray was photographing working cowboys, their status on the social ladder was low. They were expected to be hard working and tough as nails, but they also tended to be drifters, and of course you had a few bad apples in the barrel. Cowboys did not make much money, unless you advanced to ranch foreman, or started your own ranch.

But the cowboy life tends to get in your blood, and though Ray was now a photographer, his roots continued to lay with the cowboy. I think Ray saw the beauty, the ruggedness, the quiet dignity of the cowboy, long before it was romanticized and celebrated. We have some outstanding photographs, showing these men working calves by the fire, a cook preparing and serving grub to the men, breaking horses to work, sorting cows in a herd, and many more. Cowboys, as a breed, usually don’t seek, or even like, the spotlight. So, for them to feel comfortable enough to allow Ray to photograph them at work, showed that they respected the man. These photographs are raw, un-posed, showing what life used to be like in the early 1900s, a way of life that we will never witness again.

Ray’s son, Tommie, followed his father’s footsteps and became a photographer as well. We currently house his collection, as well. Tommie Rector’s collection focuses more on people. Studio portraits, time with friends, events happening in the community, and so on. With his camera, Tommie became an unofficial historian of Stamford and the surrounding communities.

Now, when I tallied that we had over 15,000 photographs, that is referring to loose photos. We also house over ninety scrapbooks and photo albums, that have loving been put together by individuals wanting a specific family history or time to be remembered. These are time capsules and are priceless.

One of our goals in the museum is to preserve the history that has been entrusted to us. To do this, we are in the process of organizing, categorizing, digitizing, and finally archiving the photographs and scrapbooks so they can be preserved for future generations. We also would love to become a center that could be utilized for research, whether for personal genealogy or by more professional researchers. This is no small feat to house this precious collection correctly. Proper archiving materials are needed as well as volunteers to help us organize and categorize the photographs.

I would like to take a moment and thank the anonymous donor that left a wonderful essay in our mailbox titled, “Adventures on a Cotton Farm.” Thank you so much for the memories.

On January 17th we are having a Docent Social from 2-3 pm. If you have ever wanted to volunteer, but you aren’t sure what that involves, please stop by and we will discuss all the different areas where help is needed. Bring a friend if you know of someone that might also be interested.

If you are a long-time resident of Stamford, or this area, and you have some time, we would love to have your help.

Just sorting through the photographs and tell us what you know about them would aid us greatly. Sadly, the majority do not have any writing on the back to let us know where a picture was taken or who is the subject of the picture.

Bring a friend, make an afternoon of it. I’ll even serve refreshments! Photographs are a window to our past, and it is our job to preserve them for future generations to be able to utilize them as well.

As always, we love for you to stop by, either to volunteer, or just to visit. Remember, we are open Tuesday through Friday, 12:30 to 5:30!

Cowboy photographs by Ray Rector

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Officials Name Members To School Finance Commission Top state officials last week named members to the Texas Public School Finance Commission, an agency created by legislation passed last summer during a special session of the 85th Texas Legislature.

Gov. Greg Abbott named Scott Brister of Waco, a former justice of the Texas Supreme Court, as chair of the commission.

Lt. Gov. Dan Patrick named his appointees to the commission: - Senate Education Chairman Larry Taylor, R-Friendswood; - Sen. Paul Bettencourt, R-Houston; - Sen. Royce West, DDallas; and - Doug Killian, Pflugerville Independent School District superintendent.

House Speaker Joe Straus announced his appointees: - House Public Education Committee Chair Dan Huberty, R-Houston; - Rep. Diego Bernal, D-San Antonio; - Rep. Ken King, R-Canadian; and - Nicole Conley Johnson, chief financial officer, Austin Independent School District.

“Reforming the school finance system in order to give schools more resources and reduce the burden on local property taxpayers has been and will continue to be a priority of the Texas House,” Straus said.

“Establishing the School Finance Commission was landmark legislation in the special session. This will be the first school reform commission since the Perot Commission in 1984,” Patrick said.

The commission is tasked with developing recommendations related to: (1) The purpose of the public school finance system and the relationship between state and local funding in that system; (2) The appropriate levels of taxes for local maintenance and operations, plus interest and sinking funds, necessary to implement a public school finance system that complies with

CAPITAL HIGHLIGHTS

Ed Sterling the requirements under the Texas Constitution; and (3) Policy changes to the public school finance system necessary to adjust for student demographics and the geographic diversity in the state.

The deadline for the commission to make its recommendations is Dec. 31, 2018.

GOV EXTENDS DECLARATION Gov. Abbott on Dec. 18 issued a proclamation extending the State Disaster Declaration for Texas counties affected by Hurricane Harvey.

The proclamation ensures that the 60 counties included in the disaster declaration continue to be eligible for assistance as they recover and rebuild after Hurricane Harvey. State Disaster Declarations must be renewed every 30 days for assistance to remain available.

TAX AMNESTY PROGRAM SET State Comptroller Glenn Hegar on Dec. 21 announced a temporary tax amnesty program to give certain delinquent taxpayers “a chance to make their accounts compliant with state tax law without incurring penalties and interest on tax due.”

The Texas Tax Amnesty Program, set to run from May 1 to June 29, 2018, applies to periods prior to Jan. 1, 2018, and only includes liabilities that have not been previously reported to the Office of the Comptroller.

Passed by the Texas Legislature in 2017, Senate Bill 1 required the Office of the

Comptroller to establish the program to encourage voluntary reporting by: - Delinquent taxpayers who do not have a Texas Sales and Use Tax Permit, or are not registered for a tax or fee administered by the Comptroller’s Office; and - Taxpayers who have a permit, but may have underreported or owe additional taxes or fees.

HEGAR UNVEILS WEBSITE Comptroller Hegar on Dec. 18 announced the Unclaimed Property Division’s new and improved website, ClaimitTexas.org, a way for Texans to search for their unclaimed money.

“I am proud of our unclaimed property program, which has returned about $800 million to its rightful owners since I’ve been comptroller,” Hegar said.

“The newly redesigned website makes it even easier for users to search for unclaimed property and I encourage everyone to go online, take a look around and see if there is money waiting for you or your loved ones.”

More than $2 billion in unclaimed property has been returned to rightful owners since the program began in 1962. People without Internet service may call 800-321-2274 to check for unclaimed property in their name.

DPS: GIVE SAFE TRAVEL The Texas Department of Public Safety on Dec. 18 reminded drivers that by staying sober and following basic traffic laws, they can give their fellow motorists the gift of safe travels this season.

In an effort to increase safety on Texas roadways, state troopers will conduct traffic patrols throughout the holiday weekends of Dec. 24–27 and Dec. 31– Jan. 1, looking for drunken drivers, speeders, seat belt violators and other dangerous drivers. Many local law enforcement agencies also will increase enforcement efforts over the holidays.

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2017: Continued From Page 4

The market operated from the lawn of the Stamford Preservation League House where any and all vendors were invited to come and sell their homegrown vegetables, plants and even homemade crafts.

After moving out of the building that they called home for many years, Mi Familia Restaurant officially reopened its doors at its new location at 601 N. Swenson. Renovations on the building took three months before opening to install a new kitchen as well as prepare the dining area to serve amazing and quality Mexican food to the people of Stamford.

June Students were not the only ones honored throughout the school year as students and the citizens of Stamford were able to vote for the 2016-2017 Teachers of the Year for Stamford ISD. In total, 35 teachers from all three campuses were honored as Teachers of the Week before the final vote which opened voting to the public where each campus would have a Teacher of the Year. After the votes were tallied, it was announced that Joni Patterson would be the Oliver Teacher of the Year, Dennis Owen as Stamford Middle School Teacher of the Year and Mindy West as Stamford High School Teacher of the Year.

Lee Ann Mueller was named 2017 TCR Hostess, and DeLaney DeLaRosa was chosen as the TCR Sponsor.

Convinced and humbled by a supportive Stamford community, the Andruch family announced that they were fully committed to keep Blue Jean Cafe growing and as popular as ever by closing for a month for remodeling. Citing the opening of new restaurants in town, the Andruchs stated that it was the perfect time to take advantage of a lull in business to make needed updates to bring the restaurant back better than ever as well as work to extend their business hours and add new items to the menu.

Owners Matthew and Kayla Rawls,

as well as Randy and Cindy Rawls, opened Makaio’s and Meme’s Restaurant and Bakery in June. The restaurant offers baked goods made fresh daily as well as a full menu that is available Monday through Saturday from 6:30 am to 2:00 pm as well as a dinner menu on Friday and Saturday nights. In addition, the restaurant offers a fully stocked pantry on home grown, home canned veggies, jams, relishes and even pickled quail eggs.

James Decker officially announced his candidacy for Mayor of Stamford.

In a released statement, Decker said that it had been an honor to serve Stamford for three terms on the City Council, which reaffirmed his love for the community and steeled his reserve to make Stamford a premier place to live, work and visit.

After 19 years, it was announced that Stamford ISD softball coach Rick Musemeche would be leaving Stamford to accept a new position at Levelland ISD. Musemeche was an integral part of the Stamford Softball program for many years and will be sorely missed by the students and citizens of Stamford.

July Congressman Jodey Arrington and his family visited Stamford to join in the festivities of the 87th Annual Texas Cowboy Reunion. Arrington gave the welcome at the matched horse races the morning of the of final day of the rodeo and gave the invocation before the start of the Saturday Championship rodeo performance, asking the Lord’s blessing on the huge crowd, the rodeo participants and the rodeo stock.

With over 7,500 FCCLA members, advisors, alumni and guests from across the country gathered in Nashville, TN for the 2017 National Leadership Conference, Stamford High School representatives Sadie Cole, Carlee Dancer, Whitney Duran and Randa Johnson were among those that took part in the event. Duran and Johnson received a gold medal after

competing in the Entrepreneurship category while Cole and Dancer also received a gold medal for the Focus on Children event.

After several months of discussion among several Jones County entities, the Stamford City Council, in conjunction with Stamford ISD and the Stamford Hospital District, moved to approve moving city elections from a November cycle to a May cycle by a vote of 3-2. The move was a result of the Jones County Clerk’s office announcing that they would no longer be facilitating elections for entities outside those held by the county itself and a subsequent Texas Senate Bill that would allow Jones County entities to move their election date.

The Cowboy Country Museum was pleased to announce the promotion of Luci Wedeking to Museum Director after having worked in the museum for the last 5 years as well as serving as the Director for the Stamford Carnegie Library for the last seven. In addition, Jewellee Kuenstler was hired to become the new Museum Coordinator after leaving her position as history teacher for Stamford Middle School and Stamford High School.

August Under the new District of Innovation plan, Stamford ISD announced the hiring of Casey Sells as a new Certified Nursing Assistant (CNA) Program Teacher as well as a new nurse for the district. Sells would teach in conjunction with Mrs. Cherry Pittcock as well as work alongside Cindy Ford to eventually take over duties as the school district’s nurse.

Stamford ISD saw the arrival of three new coaches to the Stamford Athletic Program. Dylan Ballard of Ponder, TX, was hired as a new assistant football, head 7th grade football, assistant boys basketball, assistant baseball and 7th grade boys track coach.

SEE 2017, PAGE 10

In June, it was announced that the Andruch family would be closing Blue Jean Cafe for a few weeks to remodel the restaurant and return better than ever for Stamford. As part of the process, the Andruchs stated that they would work to preserve the Bulldog artwork drawn by their very first customer so that it is maintained as a permanent fixture to the restaurant.

In July, Jewellee Kuenstler settled into her new role of Museum Coordinator for the Cowboy Country Museum, stating that she was excited to take on the new role to help continue the preservation of Stamford's history along with new Museum Director Luci Wedeking.

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7th Grade Tours Cisco College

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SMS Theater Class Performing The Grinch

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2017: Continued From Page 7

In August, classmates, family and friends of Danielle Duran honored her 12th birthday by holding a balloon release in her memory at the Stamford Softball field on August 19th, one week after Duran passed away.

In September, Stamford welcomed new Postmaster Mark Ferry to the Stamford Post Office after former Postmaster Lynda Hill retired earlier in the year.

Ferry began his career in the postal service in 1998 in Hereford, TX before going to Abilene in 2003 and then to Stamford this year.

Eric Villanueva of Hamlin, TX, was brought in as assistant football, head 8th grade football, assistant 7th grade girls basketball and assistant junior high/high school track. John Ward of Hunstville, TX, was hired as football defensive coordinator and junior high basketball coach.

In the first week of the new school year, the Stamford High School Booster Club helped get the high school/middle school campus ready with Bulldog pride as parents, coaches and teachers all met to give the Bulldog Pawprints on the driveways a muchneeded makeover, working into the night to repaint the iconic symbol of Bulldog pride around the campus in anticipation of the first day of school and the first football scrimmage of the season.

Classmates, family and friends of Danielle Duran gathered at the Stamford Softball Field to honor Danielle’s 12th birthday by holding a balloon release in her memory. Danielle slipped quietly to heaven on August 12th, one week before her birthday and before the start of the school year.

September David and Diane Lundgren, along with their daughter Ann Heathington, were proud to announce the opening of Stamford’s new bed and breakfast, The Honeybee. Chamber of Commerce Director Caitlin Richards said that the Chamber was thrilled to be able to add The Honeybee to what Stamford has to offer to community visitors.

Months after Lynda Hill retired as Postmaster after a long career with the Stamford Post Office, Mark Ferry officially started his service as Stamford’s new Postmaster. Ferry started his career as a postal clerk in Hereford, TX, in 1998 before transferring to Abilene in 2003 where he was a city carrier and then Customer Service Supervisor before coming to Stamford.

After three months of opening up their home for church services on Sunday morning, Bobby and Melodie Acosta were gifted with the church building that formerly housed Calvary Baptist Church. Members of the Calvary Baptist Church knew that the building needed to serve a purpose and knew that the Acosta’s will to help others was

that purpose. The gift also included a house owned by the church that the Acostas could remodel to help people in need of housing.

The Stamford First Baptist Church announced the creation of the First Friends after school program, which is be a faith-based program that follows a daily schedule for children after school where, for $7 a school day, students from Pre-K to 5th grade will sit down for a prayer and a snack before getting help with their homework from teacher Yolanda Martinez.

Before the beginning of the Hamlin/Stamford football game, members from the Hamlin High School Student Council presented a friendship gift to Stamford ISD in the amount of $760 in honor of Danielle Duran. The donation would be used to help purchase a new scoreboard for the softball field in memory of Danielle.

October Stamford ISD welcomed home alumni for annual Homecoming festivities which saw the Stamford Bulldogs take down the Olney Cubs 58-0. In addition, Braleigh Hickman was crowned as the 2017 Homecoming Queen out of the Queen Court that consisted of fellow nominees Kailtyn Kovar, Sarah Richards and Miya Sanchez.

The Cowboy Country Museum held a Family Night where the topic was Archaeology. The children in attendance got to experience what a real archae-

ology dig was like from actually digging up artifacts and how to record findings to seeing artifacts in a real display at the museum.

Since the Developmental Corporation of Stamford acquired the Grand Theatre, funds have been raised and work had been done to renovate the theatre for reopening. After the scope of the project was broadened to include even more extensive updates and repairs, an announcement was made that plans were set to reopen the theatre in early 2018.

After about two months of work, the spire of First Baptist Church, originally set in the early 1960s, was refurbished with new copper and reset by Barr Roofing by the end of October.

The lantern received repairs as well as including new windows and lights.

November Stamford Memorial Hospital kicked off its annual Health Fair at the start of the month. Each booth had a theme of “hunting for health” where doctors, nurses and staff all pitched in to help the Stamford community live healthier lives.

The Stamford American was proud to announce that their archives were in the process of being uploaded to the Portal of Texas History. They can be accessed at https://texashistory. unt.edu/search/?fq=untl_ institution:SCL The digitizing was made possible through the Stamford Carnegie Library and a Tocker Grant in conjunction with North Texas University.

The Stamford Bulldogs wrapped up an undefeated District 4-2A Division I season with a 38-27 victory over the Forsan Buffaloes to become undisputed District Champions.

SEE 2017, PAGE 13

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

One of the topics that I’ve written about quite a bit over the years is how the “green business” has changed, and is changing. Without covering a lot of ground, that I’ve already covered pretty recently, suffice it to say that lawn care these days doesn’t look much like it did twenty or thirty years ago. How it’s done, who’s doing it, and the way they go about it, are all things that have undergone significant change. Hey, I remember, back in the day, that if I did a tree removal, getting rid of the stump involved a shovel, and an ax. These days, a stump grinder makes much shorter work of that, creates less disturbance, and saves the customer a lot of labor time (labor time = $). A big improvement.

It’s not that stump grinders weren’t available back in the day, it’s more that they were very expensive, and difficult to maintain.

They’re still not cheap, and they are still a high-maintenance item, but nothing like they used to be, and most tree services can now afford to own and operate them.

Having said all of that, and noting how equipment is becoming more available, through lowering prices and improved dependability, not everything has gone exactly as I expected. One of the things that was starting to catch on a few years ago, which I’m a fan of, is aeration.

I remember, years ago, the first time I saw someone do some aeration of a turf. I was working on some trees, on a property literally across a street

DECEMBER 29, 2017 11

news@americannewspapers.net toon, where from a little specialgolf course ized machines green (I came along used to find and took care a lot of golf of every little balls in that thing, and yard), when then scuttled a mid-sized away to their tractor charging stapulled up tions. on the WEST TEXAS TREES AND Anyway, green, getting back lowered LANDSCAPES to the actual a piece of practice of equipment, By Bruce Kreitler and the aeration, and went to KWKC Green Team aeration of work. The a yard is operator accomplished by using covered the green in a grid some equipment to break pattern, similar to what through the surface of they would do if they were the ground, and open mowing it. The difference the subsurface soil to air, was, this was a lot noisier hence the name “aeration”. operation than mowing, The goal of this is to break and debris was flying evup compaction, allow more erywhere. Naturally, I was curious what was going on, oxygen into the soil, and perhaps introduce other so after the machine drove materials, such as comoff, I walked over to see posts, fertilizers, or somewhat was up. As it turns thing to amend the soil out, that machine had aerstructure. There are two ated the green, by cutting main types of aerators, one and pulling soil “plugs” has circular, hollow, tines, out of the soil every few and pulls the plugs out of inches. Of course I knew what aerating was, but that the soil that I mentioned above. The other just has was the first time I had blades, that cut into the seen it in action, at least soil, but don’t pull plugs with that particular methout. My opinion is that the od. When I first looked at plug type does the better it, I understood why they job, but, because I’m not would have done that to aware of any services that a golf course green, but I rake up the plugs, outside also thought it was going of a golf course, “plug” to be awful hard to putt aerators leave a much bigaround all of those plugs ger mess. A big advantage left laying on the green. of the plug type aerators I guess that occurred to is that they leave an actual the golf course operator hole in the ground, which too, as in a few minutes, presents the opportunity another machine came to put things in that hole. along and swept up all the For example, a tight clay soil plugs and ran off with soil, would be improved them. To tell the truth, I was a little bemused by the by getting some gypsum, sand, expanded shale, etc. whole thing. It was almost like watching a Jetsons car- into those holes before

they close up. Not to mention how helpful getting some cotton bur compost, mulch, or peat moss into those voids would be.

Naturally, a fertilizer application behind an aeration is going to get some of the fertilizer below ground, where it is more readily available to roots.

What has puzzled me over the years about aeration, is that it hasn’t really caught on in residential yards. The equipment is within the economic reach of average size yard care companies, and it’s a service they could be offering, but generally, they aren’t.

Regardless of the reasons, whatever they may be, that aeration isn’t generally offered in the current yard care business, I think it’s a good practice (especially for trees), and I hope that marketplace forces (A.K.A. competition), push yard services towards offering, and marketing, this service.

If you have any landscaping, landscape maintenance, or tree questions you would like answered in this column, submit them care of cmetler@ stamfordamerican.net or info@BrokenWillow.com.

In October, Braleigh Hickman was crowned 2017 Homecoming Queen by 2016 Queen Taylor Beeson at Stamford’s Homecoming game against Olney where the Bulldogs won 58-0. Braleigh was escorted by her father, Dallas Hickman.

ROTARY NEWS In a timely program, Wes Horn, minister of Church of Christ in Stamford, brought a program entitled “HOW SAINT NICHOLAS LATER BECAME CALLED SANTA CLAUS”. Saint Nicholas was born in the third century in the village of Patara. His parents raised him to be a devout Christian. Memories of the testimonials to his wonderful holiness and the glory he enjoyed with God revealed his compassion for sharing and giving. He told of how St. Nicholas was depicted in other cultures over the years. In the 1600’s, the Puritans brought Christmas to America.

A poem “ ‘Twas The Night Before Christmas”, with a visit from St. Nick, written in 1820 further defined Christmas.

In 1930, Coca Cola purchased the rights of Santa Claus and commissioned Norman Rockwell to do an ad with Santa on its bottles and thus defined Santa in red with his beard as we know him today.

Health

12 DECEMBER 29, 2017

Stamford VIP Senior Citizen Center We would like to take this opportunity to thank the following sponsors for their generous donation to our Stamford VIP Senior Citizen Christmas Party. It was greatly appreciated by all. Thank You All So Much!!!

Wishing all a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!!

Subway, Blue Jean Café, Dixie Dog, Raughton Lube, Stamford Floral, Scissor Tales, The Stamford Star, Stamford American, Mi Familia of Stamford, Mi Familia of Haskell, Beauty Within, and Double A,

Summit Hardware of Haskell, Personality Shop of Haskell, Missy’s Boutique of Haskell, R & R Restaurant. Service Barber Shop, Pizza Hut, Walmart, Modern Way of Haskell, The Drug Store of Haskell, Mikia & MeMe Restaurant, AA Restaurant, Mercantile, Charlie & Camacho Restaurant and our Staff & Kitchen Crew and our VIP Project Council for making our Christmas Party such a success. Stamford VIP Staff and all our Senior Citizens

VIP MENU Jan 1-5 Monday CLOSED Tuesday Sweet & Sour Chicken, Oriental Rice, Broccoli, Pudding Wednesday Swiss Steak, Scalloped Potatoes, Corn, Bread,

Baked Apple Thursday Spaghetti with Meat Sauce, Italian Green Beans, Salad, Garlic Bread, Peaches Friday Chicken Strips, Corn, Mashed Potatoes, Gravy, Bread, Peach Cobbler

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Standards of “Narrow Therapeutic Use” Under FDA Review

DEAR DR. ROACH: You wrote recently that thyroid medication is regulated to within 5 percent of the stated amount. Are there other drugs that are similarly regulated? Are generic manufacturers held to a different standard than the manufacturers of brand-name drugs? -- A.L.S., M.D. ANSWER: The Food and Drug Administration continues to work on new standards for drugs that are considered “narrow therapeutic index,” meaning the dosages have to be precise, due to the fact that these drugs can be more than usually toxic at a high dose or that the consequences of too low a dose also are more dangerous than other drugs. These drugs include anti-epilepsy drugs, some other psychiatric medications, drugs to prevent rejection of transplanted organs, as well as thyroid medication and digoxin.

(The Board of Pharmacy of North Carolina lists 11 drugs it considers to have a narrow therapeutic index.) I know that an internal group at the FDA has recommended implementing the same 95 to 105 percent standard for all these types of drugs, the way they have with thyroid medication. For thyroid medication, all manufacturers, whether brand-name or generic, are required to meet the same standards.

For interested readers, I have attached a list of the FDA policies and publicly available internal documents, as well as some general and scientific information about generic versus brand-name drugs, on my Facebook page at facebook.com/ keithroachmd.

DEAR DR. ROACH: I have peripheral neuropathy due to a pinched nerve. I get some relief from it, but it still hurts and keeps me from sleeping. My doctor recommended a Tylenol PM, and it helps me sleep well for six or seven hours most nights. But some nights I wake up hurting and have trouble getting back to sleep.

Then I can take two regular Tylenol and, most nights, get back to sleep after about 30 minutes. My concern is the long-term use of the Tylenol PM. -- W.H. ANSWER: Tylenol PM contains both acetaminophen (the pain reliever in plain Tylenol) and diphenhydramine (an antihistamine with sedating qualities). Both of these components have some potential for harm, which must be balanced against the benefit you are getting from them.

Excess amounts of acetaminophen can be dangerously toxic to the liver. This is especially important for people who consume alcohol regularly or have another kind of liver disease. Healthy adults should take no more than 4,000 mg per

TO YOUR GOOD HEALTH

By Dr Keith Roach, M.D. day (that’s eight extra-strength tablets, but since other medications also may contain acetaminophen, it’s the total amount that needs to be considered). People with mild liver problems should not exceed 3,000 mg per day, or should discuss with their doctor.

Diphenhydramine potentially can cause a large number of problems, but most people tolerate it reasonably well. It is not my first choice for a sleep aid, as it increases risk for falls and automobile accidents. Diphenhydramine is associated with an increased risk of developing dementia; however, it’s not yet clear whether the diphenhydramine really causes the dementia.

There are no risk-free medications, and peripheral neuropathy can be a painful, even debilitating condition. It sounds like you are getting pretty good results. The risk from the Tylenol component is small; the risk from the diphenhydramine component is unknown but also likely small.

One option I would consider is trying regular Tylenol (not the PM) at bedtime. It may be that it’s the extra pain relief that is helping you sleep, and you may not need the diphenhydramine at all.

Finally, a recent study showed that changing to a plant-based diet improved symptoms of diabetic neuropathy: It may benefit you.

Dr. Roach regrets that he is unable to answer individual letters, but will incorporate them in the column whenever possible. Readers may email questions to ToYourGoodHealth@med.cornell.edu or request an order form of available health newsletters at 628 Virginia Dr., Orlando, FL 32803. Health newsletters may be ordered from www.rbmamall.com. (c) 2017 North America Syndicate Inc. All Rights Reserved.

Opinion

DECEMBER 29, 2017 13

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Family Should Be First Whew! It is that time of year again where we prepare to say goodbye to this year and say hello to the next. I’m sure that you have all had a great holiday season and are enjoying this time with your family. I think I have made it a recurring theme this time of year when I always seem to stress the importance of family in your lives. After all, family is the one thing that Will McClure you can rely on in your toughest times and be your biggest cheerleaders in your proudest. However, not everyone can have the ability to be a part of a close family. There are some families out there that may be going, or have gone, through some difficult times such as estrangement or even a divorce. It is never an easy time when you think about this because among all of the arguing or even no communication at all, family members that are not a part of these issues are the ones hurting most of all.

Once again, I’ve talked a lot about being close with one’s family, but it is another story entirely when one member, or even several, harbor harsh feelings towards another. It is a terrible thing to think about, but it does happen. There could be a very good reason why a member, or even a former family member through marriage, chooses to not include themselves in the lives of others or even their own children. However, sometimes even just a simple phone call could mean wonders for ones that were never a part of the split in the first place.

You hear stories of children that come from “broken” homes where their parents split up and the two make little to no effort to try to make a few things work for the sake of the kids. As a result, these kids end up growing up possibly hating the world around them when all they needed was the extra support of both of their parents, even if the parents are not on speaking terms. On the other hand, there are many more stories of parents that have been able to make sure that the kids come first despite no longer being married. It is a juggling act sometimes, but they make sure that the child does not grow up resenting others. It’s a long road, but effort is put in to make sure that family does indeed come first.

So, as you celebrate this holiday season, think of those in your family where you may not always be on the best terms with. While we may find it hard to “swallow our pride,” they are still family at the end of the day. Do not let harsh feelings destroy this image of this member to others, so make an effort to reach out and at least open lines of communication. While there may be very good reasons as to not fully let someone back into your life, for the sake of other family members make the effort to let them back in even if it is just a simple phone call. After all, you never know who else you might hurt with harsh feelings, so make sure that you always put your best foot forward and make sure that family ALWAYS comes first.

Until next time, dear reader, my cap’s off to you!

THOUGHTS FROM UNDER THE CAP

Advantages of a Small School Gary Humphreys has a gun shop in Del Rio. He says business is booming (pun intended). Gary is a historian hobbyist and is serious about it. He’ll find some obscure story about a massacre or military operation a few hundred years ago in Val Verde County and go looking for the place where it occurred. A couple of times he has corrected scholars who had put an event in a different location.

Gary works with 4-H students in shooting competitions. He has made sure the youngsters have the right kind of guns and ammunition to make it to the finals. Some of them have won state championships. The rifles they shoot are the same ones used in Olympic competition and cost around $5,000 each.

He has been associated with the students for nearly 40 years. His daughter Holly has won shooting competitions since she was a child.

Gary has family ties in Comstock, 30 miles from Del Rio. Holly went to a Del Rio private school in grades

one through five. When she entered the sixth grade Gary had trouble deciding whether to send her to school in Del Rio or Comstock. “I went to Lions Club and the speaker that day was the Del Rio School Security Chief. In his closing remarks he said his goal was to get two armed officers on every 6th grade campus in Del Rio. When he said that I made the decision to send Holly to Comstock.

She didn’t need to be going to a sixth grade campus with armed officers.”

He made that choice on August first and got Holly enrolled in Comstock. “She did well and never once complained about the daily thirty-mile bus ride. The school had a good healthy atmosphere and she knew most of the people since

her grandparents were raised there and I knew several of the Comstock High School graduates.”

Holly was doing a horse project for 4-H and one day after school she and Gary were feeding horses and goats.

They got home about 8:30 or 9 that night when Holly discovered she had left one of her textbooks at school. “She told me she had homework to do and was upset about not having her book. I told her to call one of the other kids and maybe you can borrow their book. She didn’t like that idea, saying the other kids had homework, too and are using their book. I told her

TUMBLEWEED SMITH

that they might be through with it and she could use it.

She was adamant about it and said she needed to go back to school and get her book.”

Holly finally convinced Gary to take her to Comstock after 9 PM. “We drove down there and I asked her where to go. She told me to just pull up in front of the school. It was pitch black.

She jumped out of the car, opened the front door to the school, went to her locker and got her book.

They never lock the doors to the school in Comstock.

The gym is always open and students go there at night, get out the basketballs, play for a while, put the balls back and turn off the lights.”

In 2006 Comstock built a new school. The doors are locked now.

2017: Continued From Page 10

They went on to defeat Anthony and Sundown to become Bi-District and Area Champions, respectively, before seeing their season end at the hands of Panhandle in the Regional Quarterfinals.

Condley and Company, LLP, announced a merger with Clark & Cobb, PC, with the latter becoming a part of Condley and Company, LLP. The merger saw an open house to help say goodbye to the Cobbs and Clarks and introduce new personnel that would be manning the Stamford location.

December The Stamford Memorial Hospital Foundation Board of Directors honored Mrs. Nancy West with a luncheon to honor her years of service to the board. The recently retired West was presented with a crystal bowl for her service by Stamford Memorial Hospital CEO Rick DeFoore.

The Stamford Chamber of Commerce kicked off the holiday season

with the first Blue Christmas where businesses stayed open late to participate by hosting open houses for the community. Each business hosted customers and visitors with a fun holiday activity and treats specific to their business while the Cowboy County Museum also stayed open late to host old-fashioned ornament making and pictures with Santa.

Former Stamford Bulldog James Washington, wide receiver for Oklahoma State University, was named the 2017 winner of the Biletnikoff Award, which is given to the nation’s top receiver. Washington had 69 receptions for 1,423 yards and 12 touchdowns receiving at the time of the award and his total 4,346 career receiving yards led all active FBS players and ranks third in Big 12 history.

St. John’s Methodist Church in Stamford hosted their 30th annual Christmas dinner on December 25th for anyone needing a meal or simply

wanting to fellowship. The free meal was made possible by over 100 volunteers from the Stamford community who help prepare, serve and deliver meals.

And so, as we officially say goodbye to 2017, we thank you for taking this journey with us each and every week as well as taking the time to reflect on the events that made Stamford throughout the year. There is no telling what 2018 will bring, but we at the Stamford American will be proud to bring you the stories of Stamford for another fantastic year.

14 DECEMBER 29, 2017

news@americannewspapers.net

Classifieds 325-773-5550 HELP WANTED

Stamford Healthcare System is seeking a Pool Universal Worker at Country Elegance.

In keeping with our organization’s values, this role contributes by providing high quality service in a cheerful, timely manner. The universal worker is responsible for providing residents with desired services in a caring, safe and efficient manner, dressing and maintaining proper clothing and hygiene, cleaning and food preparation while maintaining order, safety and cleanliness.

For an application, please visit our website at http://stamfordhosp.com/ or drop by the front desk between the hours 8:00 to 5:00 Mon – Thurs.

Janitorial Position – Full Time • Jones County Courthouse • Experience preferred • Knowledge of cleaning chemicals and supplies • Integrity and ability to work independently • Light maintenance duties • Lawn care work Contact Lacey Hanson @ 325-823-3731 for more information Watts Tractor Co. is looking for a dependable person to detail tractors, put farm equipment together and other tasks around the shop. $15 hr DOE & paid holidays. Apply in person at 2112 N Hwy 277 Anson, TX.

111 E Campbell Historic 3 stories, 3 bedrooms, 3.5 baths and 6 fireplaces!..$227,900 1220 New Hope Rd 3 br brick home on the outskirts of town!.....................$117,000 712 Vanderbilt Victorian 2 story 3 bd, 2 bath w/ shop!..................Reduced $111,500 515 Dodson Drive Nice 2 story, 4 br, 2 bath family home!.........Listed price $92,500 HAMLIN 48 AVE B Great family home 3/2/2 on corner lot!........Reduced $89,500 1217 Compton Gorgeous Stone home w/ 2 bedrooms, 1 bath........ Reduced.$69,900 806 Davenport Nice brick home 3 bd, 1 bath, 1 car garage w fenced yard and cellar!.... $64,900 716 E Oliver Great Family Home 4/2 /2 quiet area!.......................List price $59,900 916 Wesleyan Great 2 Bd 1 Bath Brick Home w/ CH/A and 2 Car Garage..$54,500 1501 Union RULE nice Brick home w/ 3bd, 1.5 bath and shop!.....Reduced $42,000 1403 Hudson Rd Cute 2 bd w/ 1 car garage and huge bk yard in nice area!...$34,500 516 Dodson DriveGreat income producing property here.3br,1bath w/CHA.............List price $29,900 1609 Swenson new 1,200 sq ft metal building................................. Reduced $29,500 717 E Campbell great 3/2 on corner lot! Needs TLC!.....................Reduced $24,000

FARM & RANCH Jones County 152± Ac N of Trent Cultivation 704± Ac Clear Fork, Cultivation and Pasture 165± Ac Great Combo livestock/hunting place!

38± Prime Cultivation near Noodle 155± Ac LIVE WATER! Income & Hunting!

Haskell County 160± Ac North of Rule, CRP 48± Ac Great Homesite & Stock farm!

520± Acres cultivation & pasture Great Hunting!

517± Ac All Pasture and Good Water!

620 Ac Mule Creek Ranch Great Hunting w Nice Cabin!

Shackelford County 181± Ac quail buffer & great fishing! SOLD

Stonewall County 4,743± Ac Patterson N Ranch 118± Ac N of Aspermont 483± Ac Half Cultivation

Commercial Property 44 Storage Units w/ Office!

Fisher County 631± Acres All Pasture! Rough Creek Area 1,561± Ac Hunters Paradise!

161± Awesome Hunting SOLD Kent Co 789± Ac Improvements w Hunting! SOLD

PUBLIC NOTICE

Jones County, TDA Disaster Project No. 7217017 Advertisement and Invitation for Bids Jones County, Texas will receive bids for County Road improvements until 9:00 AM on January 8, 2018 at the Jones County Courthouse, 12th and Commercial, Anson TX, 79501. The bid Proposals will be reviewed at the regularly scheduled Commissioners Court meeting on January 8, 2018.

Bids are invited for several items and quantities of work as follows: 1. Contracting Truck Operators for material hauling of gravel, crushed rock and /or other types of road materials.

2. Truck Operators with 20 cubic yard belly dump trailers with capability to deliver road Materials to County Road repair locations.

3. Truck Operators required to provide proof of insurance and proper licenses for truck drivers.

4. Material proposals for the purchase of gravel, crushed rock, and/or other types of road materials.

Jones County reserves the right to award multiple vendor agreements for the benefit of Jones County. For questions regarding this notice, please contact the Jones County

Judge’s office at 325-823-3741.

Attention is called to the fact that not less than, the federally determined prevailing (DavisBacon and Related Acts) wage rate, as issued by the Texas Department of Agriculture Office of Rural Affairs and contained in the contract documents, must be paid on this project. In addition, the successful bidder must ensure that employees and applicants for employment are not discriminated against because of race, color, religion, sex, sexual identity, gender identity, or national origin.

Jones County reserves the right to reject any or all bids or to waive any informalities in the bidding.

Bids may be held by Jones County for a period not to exceed 30 days from the date of the bid opening for the purpose of reviewing the bids and investigating the bidder’s qualifications prior to the contract award.

Jones County-Judge Dale Spurgin-December 21, 2017 All contractors/subcontractors that are debarred, suspended or otherwise excluded from or ineligible for participation on federal assistance programs may not undertake any activity in part or in full under this project.

THE NEW STAMFORD AMERICAN

Classified ads: $6 minimum first 20 words Deadline 10 a.m. Monday

PUBLIC NOTICE CITATION BY PUBLICATION RULE#109 - RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE Clerk of the Court Lacey Hansen District Clerk P O BOX 308 Anson, TX 795014 Colton P. Johnson P O BOX 2169 Albany, TX 76430 THE STATE OF TEXAS NOTICE TO DEFENDANT: “You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00am on the Monday next following the expiration of forty two days after you were served this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you.”

To: THEODORE FRANCE and each of his unknown successors, heirs and legal representatives, known or unknown, if ANY OF SAID PERSONS ARE DECEASED, AND ALL PERSONS CLAIMING ANY TITLE OR INTEREST IN THE LANDS below described, under or through said defendants, all being the DEFENDANTS in said case.

You or each of you are hereby commanded to appear and answer before the 259th Judicial District Court in the Courthouse in Anson, Jones County, Texas, at or before 10:00 a.m. on the first Monday after the expiration of forty two (42) days from the date of issuance hereof, being at or before 10:00 a.m. on Monday, the 30th day of January, 2018, then and there to answer the petition of ICS Energy. LLC. in Cause No. 024292 styled ICS, ENERGY, LLC vs. THEODORE FRANCE, ET AL, wherein ICS, ENERGY, LLC is plaintiff and the said THEODORE FRANCE ET AL are Defendants. The said petition, filed on the 19th day of December, 2017, discloses that the nature of said suit is as follows:, numbered 024292 on the docket of said court, and styled: ICS ENERGY, LLC PLAINTIFF VS. THEODORE FRANCE ET AL

The names of the parties to the suit is as follows: This suit is brought to have a receiver appointed under the provisions of Section 64.091 and of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code for undivided mineral interests owned by the Defendants in the following described lands in Jones County, Texas to-wit: The West 200 acres of the Section 20, Block 3, H & T CRy. Co. Survey. Jones County, Texas.

And to execute Oil, Gas and Mineral Leases including pooling provisions to the Plaintiff or ratifications of a pooling agreement covering said land, and take such other action deemed necessary under the provisions of said statute.

If this citation is not served within ninety days after the date of its issuance, it shall be returned unserved.

Issued and given under my hand and the Seal of said Court, on 19th day of December, 2017, AD at Anson, Jones County, Texas Attest: Lacey Hansen, District Clerk Jones County, Texas

By Renesha Gilmore, Deputy Officer’s Return Received this citation on the 19th day of December, AD, 2017 at 10:50 o’clock am. Executed by publishing the same in the Stamford American, a duly qualified newspaper for legal publications, published in Jones County, Texas. The said publication was made once each week for four (4) consecutive weeks prior to the return day hereof, to-wit: on 22nd day of December, 2017, 29th day of December, 2017, 5th day of January, 2018, and 12th day of January, 2018, the first of such days being at least 28 days before the return day hereof. Attached hereto is a printed copy of such publication, duly verified by the publisher.

Danny Jimenez, Constable Jones County, Texas

PUBLIC NOTICE CITATION BY PUBLICATION RULE#109 - RULES OF CIVIL PROCEDURE Clerk of the Court Lacey Hansen District Clerk P O BOX 308 Anson, TX 795014 Colton P. Johnson P O BOX 2169 Albany, TX 76430 THE STATE OF TEXAS NOTICE TO DEFENDANTS: “You have been sued. You may employ an attorney. If you or your attorney do not file a written answer with the clerk who issued this citation by 10:00am on the Monday next following the expiration of forty two days after you were served this citation and petition, a default judgment may be taken against you.”

To: HILDA D. CARLSON, CARL EDWARD CARLSON, SR., ETEURA CARLSON, ILLIE CARLSON BERKMAN, ESTHER CARLSON EDBORG, ANTON H. EDBORG, IRENT CARLSON, AWRENCE CARLSON, JOHNIE L. CARLSON, HERBERT CARLSON, BERNICE M. CARLSON, PETE GUSTAF CARLSON, RUTH W. CARLSON, ALBERT CARLSON, AND PEARL C. CARLSON and each of their unknown successors, heirs and legal representatives, known or unknown, if ANY OF SAID PERSONS ARE DECEASED, AND ALL PERSONS CLAIMING ANY TITLE OR INTEREST [N THE LANDS below described, under or through said defendants. all being the DEFENDANTS in said case.

You and each of you are hereby commanded to appear and answer before the 259th Judicial District Court in the Jones County Courthouse in Anson, Jones County, Texas, at or before 10:00 a.m. on the first Monday after the expiration of forty-two (42) days from the date of issuance hereof: being at or before 10:00 a.m. on Monday, the 30th day of January, then and there to answer the petition of ICS Energy, LLC, in Cause No. 024293 styled “ICS ENERGY, LLC vs. HILDA D. CARLSON ET AL”, wherein the said ICS ENERGY, LLC is Plaintiff: and the said HILDA D. CARLSON ET AL are Defendants. The

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said petition, filed on the 19th day of December, 2017, discloses that the nature of said suit is as follows: This suit is brought to have a receiver appointed under the provisions of Section 64.091 and of the Texas Civil Practice and Remedies Code for undivided mineral interests owned by the Defendants in the following described lands in Jones County, Texas to-wit: The Southeast Quarter of Section 189, Cert. 189, B.B.B. & C. Ry. Co. Lands.

And to execute Oil, Gas and Mineral Leases including pooling provisions to the Plaintiff or ratifications of a pooling agreement covering said land, and take such other action deemed necessary under the provisions of said statute.

If this citation is not served within ninety (90) days after date of its issuance, it shall be returned unserved.

Issued and given under my hand and the Seal of said Court, at office in ANSON, TX 79501 on 20th day of December, 2017, AD Attest: Lacey Hansen, District Clerk Jones County, Texas

By Renesha Gilmore, Deputy Officer’s Return Received this citation on the 19th day of December, AD, 2017 at 10:50 o’clock am. Executed by publishing the same in the Stamford American, a duly qualified newspaper for legal publications, published in Jones County, Texas. The said publication was made once each week for four (4) consecutive weeks prior to the return day hereof, to-wit: on 22nd day of December, 2017, 29th day of December, 2017, 5th day of January, 2018, and 12th day of January, 2018, the first of such days being at least 28 days before the return day hereof. Attached hereto is a printed copy of such publication, duly verified by the publisher.

Danny Jimenez, Constable Jones County, Texas

Goals It’s hard to believe that another year as come and gone. New Year’s is a time we often review our past goals with great expectation for the year that’s ahead of us. We reflect on where we have been and how far we have come. We rejoice in our successes and reflect on our shortcomings.

The New Year is an exciting time, because it gives us the idea of a fresh start and a new beginning to the next chapter in our journey.

Many people around this world will set out to do something this New Year’s Eve but will never accomplish it.

The tradition to set goals or to make a “New Year’s Resolution” is a great way to challenge yourself. Although, the percentages say that many will not fulfill what they originally set out to do on December 31st at 11:59 P.M. Setting a goal and challenging yourself is an awesome way to kick off the year.

I think that all people should look to set goals in everything that they set out to do. Setting goals can strengthen our faith, and help take us deeper in our

PASTOR’S PEN

By Dalton Mathis

individual relationships with our Creator. The more that we push ourselves the further we will go. Goal setting and Faith strengthening go hand in hand.

Whether it’s a short-term or long-term goal, the higher we set the bar, the stronger we will end up. Below are four quick points on why I feel that setting a goal to strengthen your faith this New Year’s Eve is a great idea.

First, setting goals establishes priorities. If you don’t establish your priorities, someone or something else will. Setting goals is one way you can be sure that you will focus your efforts on the important things instead of the ones that try to distract you. They will keep you from allowing this world to establish your life’s agenda. Your goals will ensure that you keep first things first. And if we are truly following the Lord, we must set Christ and His Kingdom as our number one priority. Our goals should line up with our priorities and our number one priority should be to “seek the Kingdom of God above all else,

and live righteously, and he will give you everything you need” (Matt. 6:33).

Second, setting goals enables you to move from regret to real change. We all regret things we did or didn’t do last year, but regret and remorse are no guarantees that anything will change. It’s up to us to make the change, and that begins by setting a goal. If you don’t have a plan, if you don’t set goals, you are left with regret and too many “what if” statements.

It’s amazing how many people admit they have a problem in a particular area but are unwilling to come up with a plan to change. Be better than you were last year and strive for a deep personal change.

Third, setting goals is a tool for character building. Setting goals is one of the most effective character building tools that God has gifted you with. It teaches you discipline through endurance, that eventually produces strengthened faith (Rom. 5:4; James 1:3). Working towards your goal builds character and truly tests your determination of success.

When the going gets tough, it’s easy to turn around and quit.

But there is always something on the other side, something

worth fighting towards. “So let’s not get tired of doing what is good. At just the right time we will reap a harvest of blessing if we don’t give up” (Gal. 6:9).

Lastly, goals are evidence that you are serious about your God-given responsibilities. Too many people have bought into the popular belief that it’s okay to live only for the day and refuse to accept responsibility for their lives. God never meant for us to shrink back from our responsibilities that he has given us during our time on earth. We all have different responsibilities but we all as individuals are responsible for our eternal future. Goals that are set today can impact not only your near future but also your eternal one.

Setting goals are important and they can truly impact your life today and in the years to come. So I encourage you to set some this New Year’s Eve and try your very best to fulfill them. Remember to keep Christ at the center of your life and seek to grow deeper with Him in 2018. Blessings to you on this coming New Year!

LOCAL CHURCHES Avoca Baptist Church Rev. Les Mims 773-3531 AM Worship: 11:00 Avoca United Methodist Church Dennis Huffaker 773-3909 AM Worship: 9:45 Bethel Church of God in Christ Pastor Session 407 W Handlan 325-773-5730 Bethel (Christ) Lutheran Church Rev. Richard Strait 1024 E. Vanderbilt 325-773-5949 AM Worship: 9:00 Bethel Lutheran Church Rev. Richard Strait 10707 N. FM 600 325-773-5949 AM Worship: 11:00

Central Baptist Church Pastor Bud Akins 301 E Moran 773-2577 Worship: 11:00 Central Presbyterian Rev. Dr. Kelly Pigott 601 Rowland 325-773-3381 AM Worship: 11:00 Common Ground Youth Ministry Paul Wright 219 S Swenson 325-773-3604 Faith Chapel Gerald Spalding 501 W. McHarg 325-773-2866 AM Worship: 10:00 Faith Lutheran Church Sagerton, Texas 940-200-0723 AM Worship: 10:30 First Assembly of God Family Worship

Center Pastor Randy Rawls 1214 Compton 325-773-2435 Am Worship: 10:45 First Baptist Church Pastor Jacob West 214 N Swenson 325-773-2781 AM Worship: 11:00 House of God Pastor Bobby Acosta 802 Ferguson St Sundays 11:00am Lueders First Baptist Church Roscoe McCoy 228-4622 AM Worship: 11:00 MacKenzie Trail Cowboy Church Greg Taylor 325-513-2505 AM worship 11:00 Heart of God Church 114 E Campbell Joanne Ochoa AM Worship 10:30

Nugent Baptist Church Craig Thames 228-4457 Worship: 11:00 Nugent Church of Christ Nugent, Texas Ron Ballard, Preacher Sun. 10 Bible Classes 11 Morning Assembly Orient Street Church of Christ Wes Horn 510 S Orient 773-3419 Worship: 10:30

Paint Creek Baptist Church Pastor Tony Grand 940-864-3358 AM Worship: 11:00 St Ann’s Catholic Church Father Angelo Consemino 1001 S Swenson 325-773-2659 AM Mass: 11:00 St. John’s United Methodist Church Pastor John Erwin 201 S Ferguson 325-773-2561

AM Worship: 10:50 Solomon Temple Baptist Church Rev. Donnie Massey 315 N. Haskell St. 325-773-2213 AM Worship 9:30 Temple Baptist Church Jesse Morton 309 E Campbell 325-773-2550 AM Service: 11:00 Trinity Church Dr. Robert Wingrove 220 E. McHarg

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